West Nile Virus Cases In Oklahoma Break Record, Two More Deaths

The West Nile virus case total in Oklahoma jumps to 118 on Tuesday. It's the highest number of cases ever recorded in a single year in Oklahoma. Two additional deaths have also been reported, for a total of seven.

8/28/2012 Related Story: West Nile Virus Kills 5 In Oklahoma

"Our surveillance findings clearly show that Oklahoma adults over the age of 40 are at greatest risk of becoming seriously ill after an encounter with a mosquito carrying West Nile virus," said State Epidemiologist Dr. Kristy Bradley. "We continue to urge people in this age group to heed the warning and regularly practice their personal protection methods. Something as simple as using mosquito repellent can spare you from a life changing disease."

News 9's complete West Nile Virus coverage

State health officials warn that favorable conditions continue for the spread of the West Nile virus. Using insect repellent when outdoors, draining standing water from items in the yard that mosquitoes can use to breed, and assuring doors and window screens are in good repair are essential to "fighting the bite" to help prevent West Nile virus.

Find out more information on preventing the West Nile Virus.